I had posted earlier about the noise on my 02 Auto TJ Advance. As time goes on with this issue I become more confused. Initially the noise was only there on first start of the day (usually mornings) now the noise is there almost every time I start the car (even after 1 hour rest period).

Most times the noise is not heard when in Park or Neutral (sometimes it is just audible). If I turn the motor off and restart after 15-30 seconds it is still there. Revving the motor in P or N does not bring on the noise if the engine is quite. Revving does not increase the noise when it is just audible. Also if just audible it does not seem to speed up as one revs the motor.

Tried putting load on air con, power steering and alternator, but this makes no difference. I have removed the power steering and alternator belts and run the engine, with no change. The power steering, alternator etc all spin freely and and appear fine.

If I leave the car to idle for 2 minutes or less, the noise will not be there when I move to R or D. Shifting between idling and P or R 4 to 5 times makes the noise go away. I think the noise is louder going into R than going into D. If I drive 20 metres or less, go into N or P and shift to D or R, the noise is gone.

The noise is like 2 plates rubbing together, one rotating and the two not held tightly together (sounds like rattling). The noise starts just as I shift into R or D, just as the revs increase. Engine mounts appear to be OK and motor does not rock when revving in idle. Car performs A1 and there is no noise after 20 metres or 4-5 shifts or 2 minutes idling. Have removed timing belt cover and all looks fine with engine running and revved in Neutral/Park. The issue started just after the oxygen sensor was replaced (fuel consumption went high, but is now OK). So now I suspect plate in Y piece or some heat shield. Any ideas anyone? Could exhaust parts heat up enough in 2 minutes or less for vibration to stop? Apologies for the long post. Cheers John

My guess is the exhaust Y piece splitter. I had it, and after probably 5 years, it finally disappeared. I suspect that the offending piece finally rusted out inside the pipe.

i watched your video and i agree with mal i think its the hydraulic tensioner, mine sounds the same , its booked in tomorrow for it to be done, im geting the full kit done including water pump ill let you know how it goes after the cold start the next morning.

oops sorry ignore that it was someone else